The protest focused on the partial and unjust implementation of the Teacher Classification Law, which excluded 90% of classification perks from their retirement pensions. This omission, protesters argued, has drastically reduced their pensions, leaving them far below the official poverty line. 
Chanting slogans like “Woe to all this gross injustice!” and holding banners demanding immediate action, the teachers expressed their frustration with the government’s disregard for their financial rights. Many pointed out that their pensions only cover basic needs for a week, forcing them into severe financial hardship. The protest comes on the heels of another demonstration on November 16, where retired teachers called out government corruption with chants such as, “Shame on you!” and “Lying government, what happened to your promises?”
November 20—Tehran, Iran
Retired teachers continue their protests, this time in front of the parliament, reiterating their demands for higher pensions and payment of overdue arrears. #IranProtestspic.twitter.com/LI7BWRap5r— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) November 20, 2024
The demonstration drew retirees from across the country, many of whom endured freezing temperatures overnight in Tehran parks to join the protest. This reflects the depth of their grievances and their commitment to seeking justice despite personal hardship.
Protesters accused the regime of prioritizing regional conflicts and funding militant groups over addressing pressing domestic issues like pension reforms and economic welfare. Critics argue that these financial misallocations have deepened public dissatisfaction and exacerbated Iran’s growing economic crisis. Experts suggest the regime’s focus on external ambitions over internal stability has created a volatile situation that could lead to broader unrest.
More footage of the protest rally by retired teachers in Tehran.#IranProtestspic.twitter.com/b7ZoYgEnHg
— People's Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) (@Mojahedineng) November 20, 2024
Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, president-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), voiced her support for the protesters, stating, “The continued protests and unity of all sectors of Iranian society have cornered the corrupt clerical regime. These demonstrations echo years of accumulated suffering that can only be alleviated by rising up and overthrowing the mullahs’ regime.”
The gathering underscored the broader economic struggles and systemic neglect faced by retirees in Iran. With tensions rising and daily protests becoming more common, many believe the regime is facing an existential crisis.
Salutes to the thousands of honorable retired teachers who gathered today in front of the clerical regime’s parliament, raising their voices with chants like “Enough is enough! Stop this tyranny!” in protest of their plundered rights.
The continued protests and unity of all… pic.twitter.com/P6Hg24H6e1— Maryam Rajavi (@Maryam_Rajavi) November 20, 2024
The convergence of financial mismanagement, public outrage, and mounting calls for systemic change paints a grim picture for the government. As demonstrations like these persist, they may act as a catalyst for greater upheaval, signaling turbulent times ahead for the Iranian leadership.
